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Korean War: Chronology of U.S. Pacific Fleet Operations, May–August 1952

Click on month and year for a chronological listing of events of the war.

1952 MAY | JUNE | JULY | AUG |
 Glossary of Terms, Abbreviations and Acronyms

May 1952

1 May

LTGEN Hart, Commanding General, First Marine Force, Pacific, called on Commander Seventh Fleet.

COMLANDSHIPFLOT-1 (CTG 90.3) completed special lifts of interned persons from Koje-do to other sites. Total of 80,225 relocated since 19 April.

Photo interpretation established the presence of eight new heavy AA guns and eight automatic weapons protecting the important rail and highway bridges southwest of Hamhung. This was the first confirmation of the movement of heavy guns into the east coast of Korea.

HMS Whitesand Bay (PF) in the Haeju approaches supported guerrilla raid. Effective fire reported. Enemy company commander killed in raid and documents and 12 prisoners captured.

USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779), while on southern patrol toward Hungnam, received five rounds of counter-battery fire from 76 mm guns off Mayang-do Island, After evading at increased speed, Fox returned to engage counter-batteries but no activity was sighted.

BRIGEN Clayton C. Jerome, USMC, Commanding General First Marine Aircraft Wing recommended that COMNAVFE continue flare plane service to the Wing until Marine capability to execute this mission was developed.

2 May

HMS Whitesands Bay (PF) supported successful guerrilla raid at Ponggu-Myon on the mainland in the Haeju area. Enemy casualties were 24 KlA. including one DLF advisor, and communication equipment and documents were captured.

USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779), while on patrol north of Hungnam, picked up six North Korean adults and seven children who had come out to surrender and hoisted their 16-foot skiff aboard.

3 May

At Pusan, ceremony on board flagship of VADM J. J. Clark, USN, USS Iowa (BB 61), during turn over of following U.S. Naval ships-- LSSL 107, LSSL 108, PC 705, and PC 706--on a loan basis to the Republic of Korea Navy. Ceremony attended by ROK President and Mrs. Syngman Rhee, U.S. Ambassador Muccio, ROK Defense Minister, Shin Tae Yung, VADM and Mrs. Sohn of ROKN, ROK MAJGEN and Mrs. Shin Hyun Jin, GEN Van Fleet, CG, U.S. Eighth Army, RADM Dyer, CTF 95, COMSEVENTHFLT, COMSERVRON 3 and COMPHIBGRU 3.

USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779) on Hungnam patrol fired on by shore batteries and received 22 rounds 75 to 105 mm, no hits reported. Deliberate counter-fire silenced battery.

USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779) raiders, while conducting anti-sampan operations in vicinity of Sam-hot, captured six North Korean fishermen and one 40-foot sampan.

USS Ptarmigan (AM 376) and USS Toucan (AM 387), while check sweeping mines from Chaho to Mayang-do, received small arms fire from enemy installations on shore. No damage or casualties.

4 May

ROKN PC 701, while in company with HMS Morecombe Bay (PF), HMNZS Rotoiti (PF), HMS Constance (DD), and ROKNAMC 301, fired on in Upcho-ri area on West Coast.

5 May

GEN Mark A. Clark, USA, assumed command of the United Nations Far East Command.

USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779) taken under fire by shore batteries south of Hungnam. She was bracketed several times by enemy fire but experienced no damage or personnel casualties. Scored one direct hit on one gun in return counter-battery fire. During the afternoon she returned with airspot and again scored one direct hit on one gun position, but no enemy activity was encountered.

6 May

USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779) captured three sampans with 15 North Korean personnel in the Singhang-ni area.

Same day Fox raiders captured 23 North Korean fishermen and one 32-foot sampan in vicinity of Paegan-dan. Seven other sampans abandoned inshore about 1,000 yards from enemy battery.

Aerial reconnaissance reported much road traffic in Wonsan and on the roads south. Much traffic also reported on the roads in the interior behind Songjin.

A report from friendly agents indicated that communist Chinese troops were reinforcing the peninsula opposite the island of Yongmae-do, and that friendly agents are finding it more difficult to infiltrate the area.

6 May

USS Firedrake (AE 14) in operating area, with USS Valley Forge (CV 45) alongside to port to receive ammunition, had an engineering casualty cause loss of all steering and engine control. Valley Forge rammed on starboard side forward; a three-foot hole gouged at frame 26 on O-1 deck. Firedrake reported one three-inch gun mount damaged. Neither ship had any personnel casualties and replenishing resumed after only a brief delay.

7 May

USS James C. Owens (DD 776), while firing at targets of opportunity near Songjin, received 100 rounds estimated 75 mm fire from 10 gun batteries in the hillside area Songjin Lighthouse. Sustained six hits and many near misses; two killed, seven wounded, two requiring surgery. Material damage to four 40 mm gun mounts aft, officers quarters, galley ovens and topside shrapnel damage. Operational readiness of the ship satisfactory.

USS Waxbill (AMS 39) at Wonsan was fired on by 12 rounds from a 75 mm gun but no hits.

An average of over 4,000 vehicles seen in North Korea on each of six nights of reconnaissance sorties. This unparalleled daily average indicated the most extensive enemy transport activity to date.

USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779) straddled by 12 rounds 76 mm--½ white phosphorus--from shore battery on Mayang-do island. Later, 76 mm battery at Yuktaeso-ri fired eight rounds within 400 yards. No hits or casualties reported. Counter-battery fire by Fox silenced both batteries. One position out of two damaged, one cave in.

8 May

USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779) raiders cut and destroyed 6,600 feet of fish net and sunk 130 main floats of communist dual purpose fishing and harbor closure nets off Sinch'ang-ni.

9 May

POW interrogations revealed that five boat builders have been building sampans on the mainland opposite Yang-do for a possible invasion of the island.

At Hungnam, USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779) launched boat raid on inner harbor and returned with two prisoners and two small sailing junks.

USS Apache (ATF 67) grounded on shoal northeast of Fcheuu-do, Korea during attempt to unbeach LST 578. Slight damage in form of leakage to two fuel tanks.

10 May

USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779) on patrol south of Hungnam, captured four North Korean fisherman off Mayan-do Island.

During a moored sweep in vicinity of Wonsan, USS Merganser (AMS 26) and USS Redhead (AMS 34) received 10 rounds of enemy fire from gun positions located on Kalmagak. No material damage or personnel casualties.

At Wonsan USS Maddox (DD 731) and USS Laffey (DD 729) fired on railroad targets, scoring many hits. Only observed results destroyed two rail cars, damaged two buildings. Batteries on Kalmagak fired 10 rounds 76 mm at sweepers, nearest round 100 yards. Counter-fire by Maddox scored two hits.

11 May

USS Evansville (PF 70), on southern patrol off Mayang-do island, launched motor whaleboat with raiding party and captured four prisoners.

A Navy PBM on reconnaissance patrol over the Yellow Sea in the vicinity of 38-52 N 123-03 E was attacked by two enemy MIG-15s. No damage sustained by the PBM.

12 May

At Wonsan, USS Maddox (DD 731), USS Laffey (DD 725), USS Herbert J. Thomas (DDR 833), and USS Evansville (PF 70) and minesweepers received 206 rounds 75 and 155 mm gunfire in an hour long duel. Guns difficult to locate but believed to be on No-do Pan-do, Hapchin-ni and Kalamagak. Counter-battery fire destroyed three enemy gun positions.Thomas hit once, little damage, no casualties.

In vicinity Hungnam, USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779) sent out armed raiding party in motor whaleboat; swept area and took 30 prisoners. Boat was fired on three times by rifle and machine gun fire.

USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779) while firing at Hungnam, received four rounds from enemy shore battery. Batteries silenced. Proceeded to Wonsan area to disembark prisoners and returned to area where she bombarded gun positions.

Night strike groups of six aircraft each were launched from USS Valley Forge (CV 45) and USS Princeton (CV 37) to search for and isolate locomotives in an effort to catch the enemy by surprise. Sixteen locomotives were sighted by these groups and eleven were trapped by cutting rails ahead and behind. Nine were destroyed by succeeding strike groups and two heavily damaged.

13 May

In view of the reports of the probable invasion of Yangdo, CTG 95.2 requested CTF 77 to furnish air photo reconnaissance of the mainland area opposite Yangdo. He also requested late photos of Wonsan and Munp-yang-ni with the thought that the report of the planned attack on Yangdo may be to divert attention from Wonsan.

14 May

In Hungnam area, vicinity of Yuktaeso-ri and Mayang-de Island, USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779} encountered enemy counter-battery fire 12 to 16 rounds 75 mm, one hit received. Damage negligible, 2 personnel injured. Engaged battery and silenced same.

"Operation TIMBER" begun as First Marine Division obtained logs for bunker construction.

16 May

USS Murrelet (AM 372) and USS Symbol (AM 123), while conducting a clearance sweep in vicinity of Songjin, were taken under fire by enemy shore batteries of estimated 75 mm and 155 mm. Counter-battery fire by USS Doyle (DMS 34) and USS Thomas (DD 788) . No damage or personnel casualties.

ARC 304 came under heavy machine gun fire from shore of Han River Estuary. Reportedly 150 communist Chinese with mortars and heavy machine gun in area. AMC 304 returned fire for three minutes. No damage or casualties.

17 May

Raiding party from USS Buck (DD 761) landed south of Kojo; six prisoners and two sampans captured.

East Coast Korea Blockading and Patrol Group (TG 95.2) reported that an interrogation of seven POW's, captured off Ho-do Pan-do on 16 May, revealed the enemy planning an attack on Yodo in the near future. Troops are being concentrated in two locations on He-do Pan-do and are going to use about 80 fishing sampans for transport.

HMS Belfast (CL) taken under fire by enemy shore batteries at the mouth of the Taedong. Belfast engaged the guns with airspot and smothered the positions. No damage or casualties experienced.

18 May

USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779) captured two sampans and six North Korean fishermen at Kojo and delivered sampans to Nan-do Island.

CG FirstMarDiv requested a series of nine amphibious training exercises be conducted for battalion landing teams, commencing 9 June and over two weeks thereafter until completed 2 October. CINCPACFLT approved recommendations that this training be provided.

19 May

USS Symbol (AM 123), USS Murrelet (AM 372), USS Doyle (DMS 34), and HMAS Warramunga (DD) taken under fire by well protected shore batteries at Chongjin. The action occurred during last pass over the new harbor area. Both AM lost all sweep gear. No hits received by any of the ships.

USS Lowry (DD 770) taken under fire by shore batteries on the mainland southeast of Cho-do. No damage or casualties were sustained.

A daring and highly successful raid carried out by guerrillas on the enemy mainland in Haeju area. Haeju Patrol and Defense Unit (95.12.4) planned and controlled the operation which was supported by air strikes from HMS Ocean (CVL) and gunfire support from HMAS Bataan (DD). Friendly forces killed or wounded 150 enemy troops, destroyed 27 houses, damaged 50 houses, started nine large fires, and captured a considerable amount of supplies.

Commanding General Fifth Air Force notified CO First Marine Aircraft Wing that Far Eastern Air Force restrictions against close air support in the area of the First Marine Division had been lifted.

VADM J. J. Clark, USN, in USS Iowa (BB 61) at Yokosuka assumed command of U.S. Seventh Fleet vice VAEM R. P. Briscoe, USN.

20 May

USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779) received light fire from an observed 122 mm gun position in the vicinity of Kosong. No damage or casualties experienced.

CO Marine Fighter Squadron 513 requested that the delivery of replacement aircraft be expedited as the squadron was unable to meet its operational requirements.

21 May

MAG-12 began a series of close air support training flights for First Marine Division consisting of three flights of four planes daily.

Collision between USS Mount Baker (AE 4) and her escort ROKN Apnok (PF 62). Apnok seriously damaged when struck amidships while reorienting with reference to Mount BakerApnok casualties were 25 dead and 21 injured. No casualties were experienced by Mount Baker.

22 May

USS Bataan (CVL 29) suffered extensive damage and 4 personnel were wounded when a hung rocket exploded. Despite this, the warship remained operational.

Raiders from USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779) and a friendly guerrilla team conducted anti-sampan search and landed at Ch'ilbo-ri north of Kojo. Very large fish traps partially destroyed. Ship near bombline received 3 to 4 rounds of 76 mm counter-battery fire and evaded. Aircraft spotted countering fire and the enemy battery ceased fire.

23 May

HMCS Athabaskan (DD) and Close Air Patrol from USS Bataan (CVL 29) searched Taedong Man for enemy craft. Negative results. Enemy gun opened fire with shots falling short. Counter- fire silenced gun.

A raiding party from USS Walton (DE 361) received heavy machine gun fire while conducting a motor whaleboat reconnaissance of Sinchang-ni. Walton also received enemy shore battery fire in this same area. No damage or casualties were experienced during either engagement.

USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779) on Korean East Coast in Kosong Area received shore battery fire. Both rounds over ranged. Fox was unable to locate the enemy gun.

24 May

USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779} received 16 to 20 rounds of 75mm and 155mm fire from enemy shore battery north of Kojo. Fox silenced the battery with three direct hits. No damage or personnel casualties experienced by Fox. Also, raiders and guerillas destroyed one mile of the previously damaged fishtrap.

ROK Government declared martial law in Pusan, Korea. ROK Army military police subsequently arrested four members of Korean National Assembly and attempted to arrest 10 others.

25 May

150 North Korean Army personnel, using eight sail-junks for transportation, occupied Yongwi- do.

Fast Carrier Task Force (TF 77) launched 244 sorties in a maximum effort strike against Chongjin in coordination with USS Iowa (BB 61) and 3 DD.

A raiding party from USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779) destroyed 1,000-feet of a 2,000-foot fish weir in another operation north of Kojo.

25 May

USS Swallow (AMS 36), while conducting a sweep in the Songjin Harbor area, taken under fire by 75 mm and 40 mm shore batteries. Swallow asked USS Murrelet (AM 372) for assistance and, as Murrelet closed to give fire support toSwallow, the former hit three times by estimated 75 mm battery and Murrelet received two hits. Murrelet fired 41 rounds of 3 inch at the batteries and Swallow returned fire with her 40 mm. Damage to both ships was superficial and no casualties were suffered.

MIG-15s were again aggressive in attacks on friendly fighter-bombers which were targeting rail targets in northwest Korea. The increased aggressiveness of the enemy during May indicated the intention of the enemy to more fully exploit his capability of defense in the area between the Yalu and Chonzcho'n Rivers.

On Korean West Coast in vicinity of Pongyang-ni, guerrilla forces carried out raid with support of HMS Belfast (CL), HMSWhitesand Bay (PF), LST 1089, and USS Bataan (CVL 29) aircraft. First reports indicated 300 enemy killed, four taken prisoner.

26 May

In the Yongdok area an unidentified aircraft flying at an estimated 200 knots made two firing passes on a B-26, flying at 8,500 feet. Tracers were observed passing over the B-26 and were estimated to be approximately 50 caliber. The fire came from 2 guns in each wing. The enemy aircraft is believed to be an IL-10 as it is the only operational aircraft using wing guns.

USS Endicott (DMS 35) on Yang-do defense patrol conducted raid to break up fishing activities of four sampans. Captured four prisoners.

In vicinity of Kojo, guerrillas made sampan landing with USS Douglas H. Fox {DD 779) as fire support ship and YMS 504troop carrier. Enemy opposition encountered 50 yards inland. Guerrillas withdrew with no casualties.

HMS Constance (DD) captured seven prisoners and destroyed two sail junks while on Yalu Gulf patrol.

27 May

Shore batteries at Wonsan active against USS Cabildo (LSD 16) and USS Ozbourn (DD 846). No damage or casualties experienced by either ship.

USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779) off Suwon received eight to 10 rounds of 76 mm fire, all 500 to 800 yards over. Delivered smothering fire, silenced battery, then reengaged with deliberate destructive gunfire. One enemy gun and crew destroyed.

28 May

USS Lofberg (DD 759) and USS O'Bannon (DDE 450) received fire from enemy shore batteries at Wonsan. Counter-battery fire by the ships effective and no damage or casualties were experienced. USS O'Bourn (DD 846) and USSCondor (AMS 5) received light fire from the shore batteries but no damage to personnel casualties experienced.

USS Ozbourn (DD 846) at Wonsan Harbor received surrender of two North Korean Army employees. Men were armed and had camera with film and personal papers.

On Yalu patrol, HMS Constance (DD) destroyed two sail junks and took 11 prisoners.

29 May

USS Murrelet (AM 372) and USS Firecrest (AMS 18) received enemy fire while sweeping the extended area between Hungnam and Mayang-do. Firecrest sustained machine gun hits. No major damage or personnel casualties experienced by either ship. The batteries were silenced by the sweepers and USS Radford (DDE 446).

USS O'Bannon (DD 450) silenced shore batteries that were firing on friendly islands in Wonsan Harbor. No personnel casualties were experienced.

South of Hungnam, while assisting in a rescue of a downed pilot, USS Murrelet (AM 372) received fire from an enemy 75 mm gun located ashore. Counter-battery fire silenced the gun. No damage or casualties.

USS Fletcher (DDE 445) received surrender of two North Korean civilians.

Landing exercise for 34th RCT, 24th Infantry Divisions, conducted at Chigasaki Beach, Japan, completing the four week amphibious familiarization training of this regiment.

150 NKA personnel in eight sail junks occupied Yongwi-do.

Commander Fleet Air Japan informed Commanding General Fleet Marine Aircraft Wing that the pool of Corsairs (F4U) aircraft was depleted.

29 - 31 May

COMNAVFE instructed commanding officers of naval establishments in Japan to provide additional security measures to protect their installations or areas against sabotage and disorder which might be caused in connection with communist memorial service on 30 May.

29 - 30 May

USS Ozbourn (DD 846) at Wonsan received estimated six rounds 155 mm. No damage. USS Radford (DDE 446) fired on by 75 mm shore battery guns, of 10 rounds, with nearest 50 yards away. Ship silenced guns. USS Heron (AMS 18) fired on by machine guns and hit aft. No personnel casualties. Guns suppressed by counter-battery fire.

30 May

USS Firecrest (AMS 18) and USS Heron (AMS 10) received enemy machine gun fire while sweeping in the Hungnam-Mayang-do extension. Columbian PF Capitan Tono silenced the firing and also destroyed one sampan in this same area.

Commander Fast Carrier Task Force (CTF 77) advised that he would station two jet aircraft from his combat patrol in the Hungnam area during operating days as practicable. These aircraft would be available immediately on call for the East Coast Korea Blockading and Patrol Group (CTF 95.2) element commanders to suppress active shore batteries.

Navy and Marine aircraft rail cuts in Korea during month of May totaled approximately 3,100.

31 May

HMCS Nootka (DD) on northern patrol with USS John W. Thompson (DD 760) and USS Endicott (DMS 35) received 160 rounds from seven enemy coastal guns probably radar-controlled east of Chuuronjang. No damage or personnel casualties. Counter fire damaged four guns.

HMS Constance (DD) on Yalu Gulf patrol captured her fourth enemy junk. Captured four Chinese making a total of 18.

At Hongwan Roads, USS Murrelet (AM 372) armed whaleboat encountered two enemy picket sampans. Sampans used false surrender tactics. Concealed man tossed grenade when tow made fast followed by small arms fire. One man fromMurrelet killed, two wounded. 10 enemy killed. No survivors.

RADM John E. Gingrich, USN, relieved RADM George C. Dyer, USN, as Commander United Nations Blockading and Escort Force and broke his flag in USS Dixie (AD 14).

USS Fletcher (DDE 445) grounded vicinity Yangdo; damaged propellers, rudder, sonar dome.

June 1952

1 June

Commander Charles B. Langston, USN, relieved Commander Michael J. Luosey as Commander Republic of Korea Naval Forces (COMROK NAVFOR) and the Chief of the Naval Advisory Group, ROKN on this date.

HMS Amethyst (PF) supported a guerrilla landing opposite Kyodong-do but the operation curtailed due to heavy opposition.

HMS Constance (DD) captured her fourth enemy junk during another Yalu Gulf Patrol, making a total of 18 prisoners. This junk contained three Chinese.

By this date enemy had moved back to the mainland from Yongi-do and the island occupied by local guerrillas. The island had changed hands several times in the last three weeks.

Songjin-Chongjin Area - HMCS Nootka (DD) and USS John W. Thomason (DD 760) in patchy fog received estimated 14 rounds from two guns east of Chuuronjang. A near miss caused slight damage to Nootka equipment. No other casualties.

USS Firecrest (AMS 18) received one round of shore battery fire north of Hungnam but USS Radford (DDE 446) quickly silenced the battery. No damage or casualties were experienced.

Marine Fighter Squadron 312 aboard USS Bataan (CVL 29) received a congratulatory message from RADM John Gingrich, USN, CTF 95 for their outstanding performance under difficult conditions during the last operating period.

3 June

GEN Mark A. Clark, Commander-in-Chief, Far East visited the First Marine Division.

USS Radford (DDE 446) silenced enemy machine guns which were firing at USS Heron (AMS 18) and Firecrest (AMS 10) near Hongwon. No casualties were experienced by the minesweepers.

USS Redhead (AMS 34) reported probable damage to her starboard propeller and/or shaft when she struck a submerged object while under-way at night near Yo-do.

COMNAVFE requested COMSEVENTHFLT to submit coordinates of electric power targets that he previously proposed attacking.

4 June

VADM R. P. Briscoe relieved VADM C. T. Joy as Commander Naval Forces Far East at Tokyo.

Commander Fast Carrier Task Force (CTF 77) submitted a list of major power plants in North Korea suitable for air and gun strikes.

4 - 5 June

Plan "INSOMNIA," an operation involving night heckler groups that covered coastal routes from midnight to daylight, resulted in the destruction of four enemy locomotives.

5 June

North of Wollae-do ROKN AMC 301 received 15 rounds of 76 mm gunfire. No hits.

At Wonsan USS O'Bannon (DDE 450), USS Lofberg (DD 759) and USS Radford (DDE 446) silenced enemy 75 mm guns firing on minesweepers in the channel south of Ho-do Pan-do and north of the islands of Mo-do, Sa-do and Song-do. No damage or casualties.

6 June

USS Symbol (AM 123) received the voluntary surrender of eight North Korean prisoners.

COMNAVFE requested authorization of CINCFE to hit power plant complexes in North Korea.

7 June

Wonsan shore batteries fired on Hwangto-do from positions which could not be accurately located. No casualties were experienced but 21 holes were shot through the flag flying over the island.

HMCS Nootka (DD) destroyed one sampan and captured one with three fishermen.

7 - 8 June

During the night of 7-8 June an F4U engaged a probable YAK-9 south of Sariwon. The friendly aircraft fired at the enemy and observed flames from the underside of the aircraft.

9 June

The guerrilla garrison on Mu-do successfully repelled an enemy sail junk attack. The guerrillas claimed that they destroyed four of the seven attacking junks. Two of the guerrillas suffered minor wounds.

Detachment of three officers and 75 men of Amphibious Construction Battalion ONE of Naval Beach Group ONE commenced construction of an emergency, unsurfaced landing strip on Yodo Island in Wonsan approaches. Detachment transported and supported by LST 692.

USS Condor (AMS 5) sweeping south of Ho-do Pan-do and west of Suido received nine rounds estimated 76 mm fire. No hits. Returned fire scored one hit and 17 air bursts close to batteries.

10 June

USS Evansville (PF 70) taken under fire by shore batteries located on the eastern peninsula of Songjin Harbor. Straddled several times and received one near miss but no damage or personnel casualties sustained. USS Endicott(DMS 35) and USS Thomason (DD 760) closed the position and silenced the battery as the Evansville opened the range.

Minesweepers at Wonsan while recovering Dan Buoys from the channel south of Ho-do Pan-do received small arms fire. No personnel casualties or damage were sustained.

HMS Constance (DD) ran aground at Yangdo severely damaging both screws; proceeded to Kure for repairs.

11 June

RADM A. Souchek, COMCARDIV 3 relieved RADM John Perry, COMCARDIV 5 as TF 77 and as COMCARDIV 5. USSValley Forge (CV 45) departed for U.S.

Intelligence reports advised that by this date an order had been issued to North Korean and communist Chinese line units to prepare for a general offensive action. Also by this date the largest enemy troop and supply concentrations of the Korean War had been accumulated at Sibyou-ni, Yangdok, Koksan, Hoeyang and Pyongyang.

USS Duncan (DDR 874) embarked reconnaissance party in her motor whaleboat to inspect enemy held shoreline. The party chased three sampans to the beach and drew rifle fire from nearby village. Duncan covered the area with main battery fire and her boat returned with no casualties or damage.

USS Buck (DD 761) embarked a reconnaissance party in a motor whale-boat in the Kojo area but no activity was seen. A sampan with six enemy sailors voluntarily surrendered to Buck just east of Kosong. Buck delivered the sampan and prisoners to the lst ROK Corps Intelligence Unit.

12 June

USS Albuquerque (PF 7) taken under fire by shore batteries while firing at targets along the southeastern shore of Wonsan Harbor. One man was wounded from a close round aboard.

13 June

Personnel from USS Buck (DD 761) and guerillas while an inshore sweep 500 yards from Kojo, using a 50 foot motor launch, withdrew under heavy enemy automatic weapon fire. Two personnel wounded, Buck delivered counter-battery fire and silenced the batteries.

14 June

USS Skagit (AKA-1O5), LSM 226 and LSTs of TF 90 commenced lift of Army engineers, equipment and provisions to sites selected for new POW compounds, in preparation for further dispersal of POW remaining on Koje-do.

15 June

HMCS Athabaskan (DDE) and ROKN AMC 301 supported a guerrilla raid in the Tokhyon-san area. The guerrillas advanced down the peninsula under aerial strafing and naval bombardment and later withdrew, causing 60 enemy casualties including 25 killed. Naval bombardment caused 30 personnel casualties. Two junks loaded with fuel and secret documents were captured and 20 civilians evacuated. Friendly casualties were one man wounded.

16 June

Fast Carrier Task Force (TF 77) shifted tactics from routine rail interdiction strikes to scheduling maximum air strikes using entire air group for destroying key rail and transportation centers.

Fast Carrier Task Force (TF 77} planes employed radar counter-measures off the coast of Hungnam by dropping "ROPE" at 14,000 feet with a spread of 13 by 9 miles. The enemy fired moderate barrages from Kowon at it and AA bursts were observed at 12,000 feet. Pilots reported that they believed the "windshield" was effective.

17 June

USS Shoveler (AS4 382) taken under fire by 3 inch batteries on Mayan-do. Fast Carrier Task Force (TF 77) planes strafed the area and USS Duncan (DDR 874) covered the area with suppression fire, silencing the batteries. No damage or casualties were experienced by either warship.

18 June

USS Firecrest (AMS 10) taken under fire by shore batteries at Mayang-do, All sweepers present cleared the area. USSDuncan (DDR 874) closed and silenced the batteries. No damage or casualties were experienced.

COMNAVFE advised that effective immediately the existing restrictions against attack on all electrical power installations in North Korea were removed.

19 June

USS Mockingbird (AHS 27) and USS Heron (AMS 18) fired on by 75 mm batteries located on Mayang-do while they were attempting the rescue of a downed pilot. USS Rowan (DD 782) gave the sweepers support after she had picked up the pilot. No damage or casualties were experienced by the ships.

HMS Amethyst (PF) supported a guerrilla raid in the vicinity of the Haeju approaches on 19 June. The guerrillas killed l4 NK personnel and observed 27 killed by Amethyst's gun fire.

Hwangto-do was fired on by enemy shore batteries which were believed to be located on the eastern limits of Wonsan City. Two of the fourteen rounds which were observed were air bursts and believed to be VT.

20 June

Sokto received nine rounds of shore battery fire suspected to come from Wolsa-ri. HMS Cardigan Bay (PF) returned fire.

USS Bayonne (PF 21), while destroying 17 sampans in the vicinity of Hungnam, reported she was taken under fire by shore batteries located on the peninsula east of Hungnam.

Horace A. Bass (APD 124) under OpControl of CTF 95 commenced a series of four amphibious raids for intelligence and destruction, landing ROK troops at night against selected targets along northeast coast of Korea. This operation completed 23 June.

500,000 printed and illustrated leaflets in Korean, dropped from Chongjin to Songjin by aircraft of Fast Carrier Task Force, warning civilian laborers that unexploded bombs were in the ground, thus possibly impeding the rapid repair of railroad lines.

ROKN PT reports they received 30 rounds of fire by a gun at Hongwon and 30 rounds from a gun at Mayang-do, both of unknown caliber. No damage or casualties were experienced.

USS Shoveler (AM 382) received small arm fire from Chojcho-do. USS Duncan (DDR 874) covered the area with counter-battery fire, starting large brush fires. No damage or casualties were experienced by either warship.

VADM R. P. Briscoe, USN, COMNAVFE, and MAJGEN J. T. Selden, USMC, CG FIRSTHARDIV visited Headquarters, Fleet Marine Aircraft Wing.

22 June

Enemy shore batteries fired on Mudo. HMS Amethyst (PF), ROK PC 701 and ROK AMC 310 closed the area. Amethystfired air bursts at troop concentrations in the vicinity of Pup'o-ri. Many direct hits were observed on all targets and the enemy activity ceased.

Commander United Nations Blockading and Escort Force (CTF 95) directed those ships under his command that were in the possible path of Typhoon "DINAH" to seek appropriate shelter. Typhoon Condition I set at Sasebo with highest winds at 40 knots. Typhoon condition I was secured one hour later and normal condition resumed. No damage was incurred by TF 95 ships.

22 - 24 June

Ships took evasive action to avoid Typhoon "DINAH" which passed to westward of the Island of Honshu, Japan.

23 June

USS Bon Homme Richard (CV 31), with CVG-7 embarked, rendezvoused with TF 77 for second cruise in Korean campaign.

Four CV, USS Philippine Sea (CV 47), USS Boxer (CV 21), USS Princeton (CV 37), and USS Bon Homme Richard (CV 31) launched a total of 290 aircraft which teamed with Air Force in attacking the communist hydro-electric plant at Suiho (4th largest in the world) on the Yalu River and also the plants at Kyosen, Fusen. In all nine different hydro-electric plants were struck and this marked the first time the enemy's power plants were attacked. It also marked the first time after the Fall of 1950 that four CV operated together on the line.

Forty Skyraider (AD) and Corsair (F4U) aircraft from Marine Air Croup 12 (lst MAW) attacked a hydro-electric plant at Chosen, scoring 20 hits on the plant and destroying one surge tank. Thirty-eight F9F-2 aircraft from Marine Air Group 33 (lst MAW) attacked a similar hydro-electric plant at Chosen, completely destroying the plant.

24 June

USS Philippine Sea (CV 47), USS Bon Homme Richard (CV 31), USS Princeton (CV 37), and USS Boxer (CV 21) planes continued attacks on hydro-electric plants. Final count of all transformer stations in the Hwanghae Province showed that all installations at Yuchon, Haeju, Chaeryong, and Kaishu destroyed and those at Changyon damaged by combined rocket and bomb attacks.

25 June

Aircraft from the four carriers of the Fast Carrier Task Force (TF 77), USS Philippine Sea (CV 47), USS Bon Homme Richard (CV 31), USS Princeton (CV 37), and USS Boxer (CV 21) flew 193 sorties striking military targets in the vicinity of Wonsan.

Korean War entered its third year.

26 June

Chodo area, guerrilla raiding party landed, withdrew daylight supported by ROKN AMS 503.

Yodo Air Strip (120 feet by 2500 feet) completed. This project had been started on 3 June.

26 June

HMS Ceylon (CL) received two rounds of fire from twi enemy shore batteries in the vicinity of Popkyo-ri, which fell 1000 yards short. Ceylon replied with 24 rounds of 6 inch fire, covering the position of the enemy gun flashes. No damage or casualties were experienced.

ROK AMS 50 supported a guerrilla raid at Susa-ri. The guerrillas claimed 100 NKA killed and five prisoners taken. No friendly casualties were reported.

27 June

USS McCoy Reynolds (DE 440) closed an unidentified sampan and picked up five refugees, all men, in the vicinity of Mayang-do. McCoy Reynolds later taken under fire by an estimated .50 caliber machine gun from the village of Konjap'o, near Hungnam at a range of 2300 yards.

29 June

On the Korean mainland north of Yongmae-do, HMS Ceylon (CL), HMS Comus (DD), HMS Amethyst (PF), supported guerrilla raid. Raiders returned at daylight with two prisoners.

30 June

Navy and Marine flights since beginning of the Korean War (25 June 1950) total to date was approximately 195,000.

Navy and Marine aircraft rail cuts in Korea during month of June totalled approximately 1,700, representing a reduction of 1400 from May.

July 1952

1 July

The lst Marine Division (Reinforced) continued to occupy, organize and actively defend its sector, I Corps, Eighth U. S. Army, Korea.

While enroute from Wonsan to Sancho, USS Albuquerque (PFT) was taken under fire by 122 mm batteries in the Kojo area. USS Perkins (DDR 877) came to her assistance with suppression fire and was also taken under fire at a range of 11,000 yards. The enemy batteries were silenced, and no damage was suffered by the warships, although they were straddled. Enemy fired 75 to 100 rounds during engagement.

2 July

COMSEVENTHFLT directed CTF 77 to give advance notice to maximum effort strikes to CINCFE, CG FEAF, and COMNAVFE to ensure coordination. A maximum effort strike was defined as consisting of two or more CV air strikes coordinated in a single area, with one or more heavy ship gun strikes.

USS Perkins (DDR 877), on the Nan-do patrol, silenced shore batteries after receiving an estimated 75 rounds of unknown caliber enemy shore battery fire. No damage or casualties were experienced.

3 July

TF 90 amphibious vessels commenced the redeployment of 70,000 trouble-making POW's from Kojo-Do to new prison camps on other islands. By 17 July the operation had been completed, without incident.

Aircraft of TF 77 attacked the power complexes at Fusen and Puryong.

USS Currier (DE 700) provided counterbattery fire against two batteries, estimated 75 mm to 105 mm, which were firing at USS Current (ARS 22) in the vicinity of the headland between Wonsan and Hungnam. Enemy fired 30 rounds with many near misses, but no hits.

COMNAVFE approved a request from CG Fifth Air Force to move the First Marine Air Wing AN/MPS-4 height-finder radar and ground IFF equipment, plus two officers and 18 enlisted men, from Tsushima Island to Chodo Island. COMSEVENTHFLT recommends that these personnel report to the Island Commander in the event of an enemy attack.

USS Bausell (DD 845) suffered a boiler casualty in her #2 boiler, resulting in damaged tubings.

USS Currier (DE 700), while providing gunfire support for USS Zeal (AM 131) and USS Symbol (AM 123), in the vicinity of the island of Mayang-do, received 20 rounds of well directed 75/76 mm fire from the southwest tip of the island, but was not hit. USS Symbol (AM 123) provided a smoke screen for the ships.

350 friendly guerrillas carried out a successful raid on the peninsula north of Mudo Island, supported by HMS Comus (PC 703).

5 July

USS Orleck (DD886) and USS Doyle (DMS34), while firing at targets in the city of Chuuronjang, south of Songjin, were caught during a turn and fired on at 6,000 yards range by 75 mm to 155 mm batteries. Approximately 70 rounds were fired by nine guns, and Orleck was bracketed at least five times, receiving fragments on board which caused superficial damage and one minor personnel injury. Firing continued until ships opened range to 16,000 yards. Counterbattery fire by Orleck and Doyle resulted in one gun being silenced.

USS Symbol (AM 123), while patrolling from Song-do Gap to Chaho, taken under fire by an enemy shore battery. Eight rounds of well directed 75/76 mm fire were received, the nearest splashing at 100 yards. No damage or personnel casualties were experienced.

6 July

On order of I Corps, the First Marine Division initiated operation "Buckshot", a large scale infantry raid on enemy positions.

USS Philippine Sea (CVA 47) completed her second Korean cruise. VF-112, the F9F squadron aboard, completed its entire combat tour without loss or major damage to a single aircraft.

USS Zeal (AM131) received eight rounds of well directed fire from the southwest tip of Mayang-do. The nearest round splashed 100 yards away.

HMS Mounts Bay (PF), ROKN LSSL 107 and USS Kimberly (DD521) supported guerrillas infiltrating the mainland in the Chinnampo area.

6 - 7 July

USS Symbol (AM 123) received eight rounds of estimated 75/76 mm enemy shore battery fire in the vicinity of Hungnam. No damage or casualties were experienced.

7 July

Reduced allocation of 1000, 250 and 100 pound GP bombs, resulted in increased usage of 2000 and 500 pound GP's, 220/260 frags, and ATAR's. Other results were reduction in the gross weight per sortie, and emphasis on bridge destruction rather than on rail cutting.

Four men washed overboard from USS Arnold J. Isbell (DD 869) while she was enroute Formosa Patrol. Three men recovered, two injured.

7 - 8 July

Fast Carrier Task Force (TF 77) pilots reported much vehicle traffic moving north of Hungnam on route between Hungnam and Hongwon.

9 July

On the West Coast, a coordinated air-gun strike was conducted against the Sillyon Myon peninsula north of the Taedong River. HMS Ocean (CVL), HMAS Warramunga (DD), and USS Kimberly (DD521) participated. They effectively neutralized all coastal and AA gun positions in the area. In addition, aircraft from HMS Ocean hit and damaged one transformer station.

10 July

Truce negotiations entered second year of meetings.

Off the island of Mayang-do, USS Hollister (DD788) received 32 rounds of estimated 75/76 mm fire from two guns on the island and two guns on the mainland. The first round was 25 feet short, and all rounds landed within 300 yards. The ship maneuvered radically, but the gunfire followed her out to a range of 6,000 yards. No casualties or damage were experienced.

11 July

A joint United Nations air strike was made against industrial targets in Pyongyang, capitol of North Korea, in one of the largest raids of the Korean War. Participating in the operation were aircraft from USS Princeton (CVA 37), USS Bon Homme Richard (CVA 31), HMS Ocean (CVL), U.S. and Australian Air Forces, and U.S. Marine aircraft. The Pyongyang Operation was conducted under adverse weather conditions. Although the target area was clear, weather in the Sea of Japan and the Eastern inland sectors of Korea was marginal. Despite this handicap photographic reports indicated excellent results against assigned targets. Due to the flak suppression missions flown, combat losses to friendly aircraft were low against the heavily defended city. Intelligence agents later credited this tremendous strike with a direct hit on a large air raid shelter causing 400 to 500 casualties, including government officials and high communist party members.

Three North Koreans in a sampan surrendered to USS Hollister (DD 788) near the island of Mayang-do. On interrogation by the Rokn Liaison officer aboard the Hollister, they confirmed the presence of five guns on the mainland opposite Mayang-do. They claimed that the guns were located in caves and rolled out on tracks when they fired on ships.

In the Haeju area, HMS Comus (DD) neutralized mortar positions which were firing on friendly Junks. Spotters report that she killed 47 and wounded 23 enemy troops.

While proceeding northward towards Wonsan, ROKN PC 705 suffered damaged when her mast snapped. She took refuge in Pohang.

12 July

During a gunfire support mission, USS Perkins (DDR 877) received seven rounds of estimated 105 mm fire from the vicinity of Kosong. Perkins was not hit.

While operating near Chaho, USS Hollister (DD 788) received 104 rounds of fairly accurate fire from 75/76 mm batteries but was not hit. She placed a reconnaissance party ashore by whaleboat and located an anti-boat boom in the Hongwan area. CTF 95 notified Hollister that such raids are not normally a part of a patrolling destroyer's duties.

During a heavy gun strike in the Sinpo area, USS Juneau (CLAA119) received seven rounds of unreported caliber enemy shore battery fire. No damage or casualties were sustained. Enemy shore battery was silenced with counter-battery fire.

13 July

COMSEVENTHFLT announced that intelligence reports indicate the recent attacks against the North Korean power complexes had seriously reduced electric power available for military and industrial uses. Periodic attacks on damaged plants were directed, as were attacks on transformer and sub-stations, to prevent the receipt of power from sources outside Korea.

USS Princeton (CVA 37) and USS Bon Homme Richard (CVA 31) air groups flew first Task Force 77 close air support missions of 1952.

USS Hollister {DD 788), while firing interdiction, received 108 rounds of 75/76 mm fire from three guns in vicinity of Sinch'ang. Hollister took all three guns under fire, suppressing them and scoring a direct hit on one. No damage or casualties were experienced by Hollister.

USS Princeton (CA 130) received 16 rounds from a 75/76 mm enemy shore battery in the vicinity of Suwandan Lighthouse, all splashes 25 to 800 yards away. No damage or casualties were experienced.

14 July

Enemy shore batteries in the Kojo area fired an estimated 64 rounds of 75/76 mm fire at USS Southerland (DDR743). Fire opened at range 3,000 yards and continued out to 13,000. Southerland received four hits, wounding eight men, and causing moderate damage to radar cabling and a ventilation exhaust blower.

On the Korean West Coast, HMS Belfast, HMS Amethyst, and USS LST 883 supported a guerrilla raid on the Changsan Got peninsula. Gunfire support was reported very effective.

In the Chodo area, HMS Cardigan Bay investigated a report that 102 NKA troops were preparing to attack friendly guerrilla held island of Ungdo. She fired six airbursts in the area, but the raid did not develop.

15 July

In the first use of the new emergency landing strip on Yodo Island in Won-san Harbor, seven Corsairs, low on fuel while searching for a downed pilot, all landed safely on Yodo, and after refueling returned to Task Force 77.

USS Hollister (DD788) received 16 rounds of 75/76 mm fire from the vicinity of Mayang-do. All rounds fall within 300 yards, but there were no hits. Later in the day USS Iowa (BB61), with a helicopter spot, destroyed both batteries.

Friendly guerrilla held island of Changnin-do invaded by 156 North Korean soldiers in two sail junks and four wooden folding boats equipped with outboard motors. HMS Belfast, HMS Amethyst, and aircraft from USS Bataan (CV129) assisted friendlies by engaging targets of opportunity. HMAS Amethyst was taken under fire by a 75/76 mm battery but was not hit. Counterbattery fire caused secondary explosions, and silenced guns. Surface units surrounded island awaiting counterattack by friendly guerrillas.

USS Orleck (DD 886) caught five flat cars and 10 box cars between tunnel. Ten heavy field pieces on flat cars, and explosives in box cars, were destroyed.

16 July

A MIG-15 attacked an RB-26 which was flying at 1500 ft. on a weather reconnaissance mission over the Yellow Sea. The friendly aircraft immediately went down to 100 ft. and adopted evasive tactics. The MIG made six or seven firing passes. Initial attack took place at 38-20 N 122-20 E. This attack is significant because it demonstrates communist flight capability over the Yellow Sea.

Surface element of manned anti-invasion stations in Sokto, Chodo, and Hasju areas bombarded enemy mainland positions, and supported friendly guerrilla raids in the vicinity of Taedong-man.

17 July

Senior advisor with the lst ROK Corps expressed gratitude for magnificent air support given ROK troops by marine aircraft during recent six day period.

HRMS Piet Hein (PF), USS Endicott (DMS35), and USS Orleck (DD886) captured
two sampans and 10 prisoners. Three prisoners had surrender certificates.

Changnin-Do Island reoccupied by friendly guerrillas--supported by HMS Belfast, HMS Amethyst, and ROKN PC 702. Of the 156 NKA troops who had previously invaded island, 60 were killed, 30 drowned in trying to escape, 41 were taken prisoner, and five went missing. Friendly casualties were eight killed, and 12 wounded.

17 July

COMSEVENFLT set forth the general policy that Seventh Fleet units would ordinarily be limited to a speed of advance of 18 knots during transit. Exceptions could be made in emergencies and when operational requirements so dictated.

18 - 24 July

USS Essex (CVA 9] and USS Philippine Sea (CVA 37) conducted a sweep along China coast to obtain photographic intelligence and to make show of force.

19 July

USS Orleck (DD 886) fired upon by five shore guns in the vicinity of Taejo. Enemy fired 50 rounds of estimated 75/76 mm scoring one hit on the after 40 mm mount, slightly wounding five men.

ROK Army Intelligence report indicates UN air attacks on power installations have had following effects: Power plant at Changjin knocked out, Supong plant out, Supong dam damaged beyond repair. As of 17 July, all factories in the Wonsan Yonghung area were without power. Also, all factories in Tanchon and Iwon were reported without power.

Enemy batteries in the Wonsan area came alive during the afternoon and fired on the UN held islands of Hwangto-do, and Yodo, and on the USS Parks (DD 884). No damage or casualties were reported.

20 July

Collision occurred between USS Duncan (DDR874) and USS Essex (CV9) in Korean
operating area during fueling. Material damage to Duncan included gun tubs dished in, boat davits twisted, radar and carriage twisted, etc. There was one minor injury.

21 July

USS Toucan (AM 387) captured a sampan and five men off Ansong Gap (east of Hungnam).

USS O'Brien (DD 725) reported excessive vibration in her starboard shaft after being set upon a net buoy at the entrance to Yokosuka bay. An inspection by a diver indicated a 12 inch crimp on one blade and slight nicks are crimping on other blades of the starboard propeller.

22 July

USS LSMR 536 taken under fire by three guns on Am Gak peninsula. Enemy fired 20 rounds of unreported caliber, the nearest splash occurring fifty yards astern.

USS Parks (DD 884) caught 300 enemy troops repairing a rail break, south of Wonsan, and fired 28 rounds. She reported inflicting 74 casualties and scoring hits on the bridge and tracks. She also provided illumination at the location for bombing by night intruder planes "with excellent results".

23 July

During the last week in July the units of Underwater Demolition Team 5, supported by USS Diachenko (APD123) and two ROKN motor torpedo boats, conducted six successful raids against enemy fishing facilities. Besides destroying a creditable number of fish nets, small boats, and waterfront buildings, the raiders captured five prisoners.

In the Haeju area, HMCS Nootka (DDE) taken under fire by two enemy shore guns of unreported caliber. Enemy fired eight rounds, but was unable to hit Nootka.

24 July

ROKN PC 706 collided with a motor junk. PC 706 proceeded to Pusan to effect repairs. All damage was minor and above the waterline. No personnel casualties were suffered.

26 July

A ROK ONI report stated that there is a. large scale exodus from Kaesong. An agent who had Just returned from that city said that families of high-ranking North Korean officials, Russian Officers, the supply corps for Panmunjom troops, and most troops have left the city during the past two weeks.

27 July

Three unidentified ships fired at a PBM, on a routine patrol flight over the Yellow Sea, but could not damage the aircraft.

Sindok lead and zinc mill, which reportedly had shipped 3,000 tons of processed lead and zinc to Russia via China each month, was 75 percent destroyed by TF 77 aircraft.

MIG-15 aircraft attacked eight Firefly F-51 planes from HMS Ocean. Two Fireflies were damaged. This is the first MIG attack on TE 95.11 planes.

A revised schedule of night hecklers was commenced by TF 77 aircraft. Three groups of hecklers were launched at dusk. One group carried out mission and landed aboard at 2230. Two other groups landed at land base. One heckled from 2230 until 0200 and the other from 0230 until 0530 when it returned to the Task Force.

On this day the Korean rainy season began and the heavy rains that fell for the day amounted to 1.79 inches.

Activity across entire Korean front decreased sharply during period. Enemy activity limited to interception of friendly patrols, and platoon sized or smaller probes.

27 - 28 July

USS Strong (DD 758) received 12 rounds of estimated 105 mm or 120 mm enemy counterbattery fire with no damage or casualties reported.

HMCS Nootka (DDE) received 12 rounds of unreported caliber enemy fire from the vicinity of Haeju with no damage or casualties reported. Counterbattery fire silenced guns.

28 July

USS Strong (DD 758), at Cho-do, bombarded 150 troops utilizing a naval gunfire support team. In the Sok-to area, Strong fired at enemy batteries and enemy returned fire at range 13,600 yards with 4 fairly accurate salvos of 3 guns each. Batteries estimated to be 105 mm or 120 mm. No damage to Strong.

Thirty-eight naval aircraft (13 AD, 25 F4U) in two strike groups from USS Princeton (CV 37) attacked a magnesite plant and associated facilities at Kilchu. Damage included 60 percent destruction of magnesite plant, complete destruction of a thermo-electric plant, and damage to a barracks area.

29 July

The heaviest rains for the period were received, amounting to 3.66 inches.

Patrol Squadron 28, based at Okinawa, commenced routine and regular photographic coverage flights along the China Coast.

30 July

US FEAF raid of B-29's (Superforts) on Oriental Light Metal (Aluminum) Works near Manchurian border - four miles south of Yalu River. Biggest night raid on a single target of Korean War to date.

31 July

Intelligence agents reported that Task Force 77 and Air Force attacks had damaged the Supong and Changjin power plants beyond the North Korean capacity to repair and, as of 17 July, factories at Wonsan, Yonghung, Tanchon, and Iwon had been without power since the strike on the Kyosen No. 4 plant.

ROKN PC 701, while patrolling in hazardous waters and bad visibility one mile east of Mudo, went aground, flooding-her engine room and compartments. HMCS Nootka (DDE) assisted by USS Firecrest (AMS 10) towed PC 701 to Yonpyong-do.

Over the Yellow Sea (38-26 N, 122-36 E), two enemy aircraft, tentatively identified as MIG-15s, attacked a Navy PBM on a reconnaissance mission. The PBM was flying at 1200 feet when the attacking aircraft made runs from astern; killing the tail gunner and knocking out the tail turret. PBM descended to 250 ft., where each enemy made two additional runs before breaking off the attack and returning to the north. In addition to the tail gunner, one other crew member was killed and two more seriously injured. The PBM was forced to land at Paengyong-do for minor repairs before returning to its base at Iwakuni, Japan, and more significant repairs.

August 1952

1 August

Bad weather during the month of July hampered carrier operations on 11 days and resulted in the completion of only 42.1 per cent of scheduled photo, renaissance sorties. The weather also restricted the operations of the Marine Air Wing on 26 days during July.

Only three Navy men were killed during the month of July. This was the lowest number of battle dead since July 1951, when no Navy men were killed in action.

Rail cuts dropped from 3,100 in May and 1,700 in June to slightly more than 400 cuts during July, indicating the trend toward targets of a strategic nature.

USS Carmick (DMS 33) fired on by an estimated 75/76 mm enemy shore gun in the vicinity of Songjin lighthouse. Counterbattery fire silenced gun. No damage or personnel casualties were experienced by Carmick.

HMCS Nootka (DDE) received four widely inaccurate rounds of estimated 79/76 mm a fire from guns near Samjong, Korean West Coast. Nootka returned 135 rounds, but could not evaluate the results.

USS Essex (CVA 9) conducted first flight operations against the enemy to commence second Korean tour of duty.

Japan National Security Law became effective and the Coastal Security Force was established independent of the Maritime Safety Agency. This constituted an important legal step in turning over America patrol vessels to Japanese operators.

2 August

A coordinated maximum effort air/surface strike on Chongjim was only 30% completed because of weather, but excellent results were obtained against selected targets.

3 August

In the Cho-do area, HMS Belfast (CL) received 20 rounds of enemy gunfire from two guns, estimated 75/76 mm. First salvo straddled Belfast. One shell hit forward mess deck caused a hole 1 by 2 feet and minor splinter damage. Four personnel wounded. Belfast fired counterbattery fire with unknown results.

4 August

Friendly elements on the island of Mudo received 38 rounds of unreported caliber enemy fire. Several buildings were destroyed but no personnel casualties were sustained. HMCS Nootka (DDE) received five rounds of unreported caliber fire from same gun that fired on Mudo. No casualties or damage were sustained. Counterbattery fire was placed on enemy gun with unassessed results.

Commander Seventh Fleet recommended to Commander Naval Forces, Far East, that Commander Seventh Fleet continue assignment of frigates to Naval Station Subic Bay for restricted availability. Commander Seventh Fleet did not consider it feasible to assign other types to Naval Station Subic Bay.

The enemy fired 10 rounds of 75/76 mm shells at the USS Carmick (DMS 33) from Yujin Dan at a range of 8,000 yards. The closest round was 25 yards short. Carmack returned 23 rounds in counterbattery and the enemy ceased firing.

More than 1,000 communist MIG aircraft have been downed since the start of the Korean War.

ROKN MTB 27 fired upon by machine guns, heaviest approximately 37 mrn, manned by an estimated company of troops in the Tanchon area. USS Porter (DD 800) returned fire causing an estimated 75 enemy casualties.

An encounter of friendly aircraft with eight MIG-15 over Haeju represents southernmost penetration of enemy aircraft since 2 February. Enemy night activity dropped off sharply with only six sightings of enemy or unidentified aircraft reported.

6 August

Marine aviators of MAG 33 flew 141 sorties today, a new record for the group..

An explosion of a Panther jet aircraft (F9F) on the hangar deck of USS Boxer (CV21) caused a fire which ignited gasoline and ammunition. Nine personnel including one officer died of smoke and burns. Helicopters and destroyers of Task Force 77 rescued 63 survivors from the sea. Fire was under control in few hours and the ship was still operational, although 12 planes and some aviation material were destroyed in the fire.

USS Pierce (DD 753) received seven hits from approximately 100 rounds of estimated 105 mm, fired from enemy shore battery in the vicinity of Tanchon. Hits damaged torpedo director, a 5 inch mount, holed both stacks, and caused 10 personnel casualties.

7 August

A Navy Mariner PBM crashed on the west slope of Bataan Mountain, near the entrance to Manila Bay. Thirteen bodies were recovered from the wreckage, with no survivors.

VADM J. J. Clark, USN, Commander Seventh Fleet, appointed a Court of Inquiry to investigate accident on USS Boxer(CV 21) when jet aircraft exploded on hangar dock, resulting in nine fatalities.

8 August

A Navy Mariner PBM, while on a night ASW patrol flight, crashed on Shikoku Island, Japan. All occupants, including five officers and nine enlisted men, killed.

9 August

The friendly hold island of Changnin-do was fired on by an unreported caliber gun in the vicinity of Ongjin on the mainland. Counterbattery fire by USS Kimberly (DD 521) suppressed gun.

Four Sea Fury aircraft from HMS Ocean (CVL) were attacked by eight MIG-15 north
of Chinnampo at 5,000 ft. Air battle resulted in one MIG destroyed.

10 August

Enemy shore batteries in the vicinity of Songjin fired 50 rounds of estimated 75/76 mm at HMS Mounts Bay [PF). Three hits killed one seaman, seriously wounded four. Mounts Bay fired 134 rounds of 4 inch in counterbattery and scored a hit on one gun.

At least seven guns from Ho-do Pan-do repeated their tactics of firing with the sun behind their back, and opened fire on the friendly island of Yodo, in Wonsan Harbor. No significant damage or casualties were experienced on the island.

USS Van Valkenburgh (DD 656) taken under fire by 10 rounds from a 75/76 mm battery in the vicinity of Kangson-ni. No damage or casualties were experienced.

A battery, on the mainland in the vicinity of Ponghwang-ni, fired three rounds at the island of Mudo. Counterbattery fire by HMS Concord (DD) silenced battery.

Enemy gun positions on He-do Pan-do, in the Wonsan area, fired upon USS Barton (DD 722) and USS Jarvis (DD 799). Enemy fired approximately 250 rounds from an estimated nine guns, ranging from 75 mm to 155 mm. Barton suffered superficial damage, one killed, and one wounded. No damage to Jarvis. Counterbattery fire destroyed two guns.

11 August

ROKN Duman (PF), in vicinity of Hungnam, was taken under fire by approximately 70 rounds of estimated 75/76 mm fire from enemy shore batteries, with no damage or casualties reported.

In the Hungnam area, USS Soley (DD 707) was fired by an estimated 70 rounds of 75/76 mm counterbattery fire. No damage or casualties were experienced.

12 August

HMS Concord (DD) engaged approximately 100 troops on Ongjin Peninsula attempting invasion of friendly guerrilla held island of Cho-do. Enemy forced to retreat.

In the Wonsan area, the USS Grapple (ARS 7) was target for approximately 30 rounds of 105 mm shells. Grapple was hit once below waterline causing superficial damage, no casualties. USS Barton {DD 722.) fired 89 rounds of suppression fire and scored three hits on two gun positions.

ROKN FS 905, anchored off Yodo Island, in Wonsan Harbor, with a load of gasoline and ammunition for the Motor Torpedo Boats, was taken under fire by enemy shore guns and received one hit in the starboard machine gun battery causing minor material damage, but no personnel casualties.

12 - 13 August

An RB-29, on a routine night shipping surveillance over the Japan Sea, was repeatedly intercepted for a period of 5½ hours by flights of from one to 20 unidentified enemy jet aircraft. The enemy jet aircraft did not use running lights and at all times remained above the RB-29.

14 August

USS Porter (DD 600) was target for 20 rounds of 105 mm fire from the vicinity of Songjin. She was straddled, but suffered no damage. Porter returned the fire and claims one gun destroyed.

Fifteen rounds of 105 mm were fired at HMS Mounts Bay (PF) from two guns in the Songjin area. Five of the rounds were near misses, but she was not hit.

COMCARDIV ONE reported that the shift of target emphasis from rails to the hydra-power complexes has forced the enemy to spread his anti-aircraft installations, permitting the destruction of several previously too well defended bridges.

USS Porter (DD 600) and USS Jarvie (DD 799) conducted night anti-train patrol by laying to approximately 3,000 yards off shore in the Songjin area. Motor whaleboats and ROKN motor torpedo boats, operating close inshore, relayed via radio approach of train. Two trains were damaged by Porter, one by Jarvis.

15 August

While on Flycatcher Patrol (anti-sampan) near Hungnam, USS Chief (AM 315) failed to recognize the USS Grapple (ARS 7) in the darkness and fired two rounds of 3 inch at Grapple at a range of 1,000 yards. Both rounds were hits, killing two men and wounding nine. Information indicates that visual recognition signals were not given by the Chief prior to her opening fire.

USS Jarvis (DD 799) received eight rounds of 105 mm fire from vicinity of Songjin. First salvo straddled her at 10,000 feet, but she suffered no damage.

HMCS Crusader (DDE) and HMNZS Rotoiti (PF) fired at enemy troop concentrations on the mainland, opposite Kirin-do, in support of a friendly guerrilla raid.

USS Redhead (AMS 34) and USS Heron (AMS 18) were taken under fire by two 155 mm and one 75 mm batteries in the Yujin Dan peninsula area. Redhead received four rounds, and was straddled twice. Heron received five rounds. No damage or casualties were experienced, however, by either ship.

16 August

Friendly island Hwangtodo, off Wonsan, received heavy fire from four guns estimated 155 mm on Kalma Gak. Fire was also received from machine guns and large caliber mortars in unknown positions. No damage was reported.

Following an accident in which one Seventh Fleet vessel fired on another, Commander Seventh Fleet emphasized the necessity for establishing positive identification before opening fire.

17 August

ROKN motor torpedo boats, while rendering spotting services at Chaho, were fired on by shore batteries, receiving two and three gun salvos at 5,000 to 6,000 yards. All the shots were wild.

18 August

USS Bon Homme Richard (CV 31) had been at sea for 50 consecutive days. This was the longest period for sustained operations by any carrier in Task Force 77 since the fall of 1950.

18 - 19 August

Typhoon "Karen" swept through the Korean area on these dates; forcing the suspension of the siege of Wonsan, the diversion of Task Force 77 to safer waters, and resulting in a large number of floating mines that were apparently dislodged from their moorings in unswept areas. Several UN vessels suffered superficial topside damage during the height of the storm.

19 August

Far East Command estimated that Suiho power plant, attacked on 23 June, was nonoperational for three to seven weeks. Limited power was supplied by mid-August and by 23 August plant was expected to approach pre-bombing capacity. Generators were deep inside dam and only transformers and other surface equipment were destroyed by attack.

20 August

U.S. Navy, Marine, and Air Force aircraft teamed together in a tremendous mass attack on the large Korean West Coast supply area at Changpyong-ni. Pilots estimated 80% of the assigned area was destroyed.

USS Waxbill (AMS 39) momentarily grounded in difficult waters near Chin-Cho, while evacuating a badly wounded Korean from Taesuapto, on a moonless night. Damage occurred to Waxbill's port propeller and sonar dome.

USS Thompson (DMS 38), off Songjin, while waiting for air spot aircraft, was taken under fire by shore batteries while 10,000 yards from shore. Batteries were estimated as 155 mm. One air burst above the bridge caused the following casualties: three dead, ten wounded and minor material casualties. Thompson replied with counterbattery fire at the unseen batteries. Four or five other shells landed nearby as Thompson cleared area. Wounded and dead were transferred to the USS Iowa (BB61).

Six MIG-15 engaged 12 Princeton F9F at 15,000 feet over Sukchon. The F9F's easily countered all passes and received no damage.

Commander Task Force 77 restricted aircraft operations south of Wonsan to a minimum pullout altitude of approximately 3,000 feet, in order to reduce losses to heavy concentrations of enemy gun fire.

21 August

USS Boyd (DD 544) was straddled with two rounds of estimated 155 mm shells from gun or guns on Yujin-dan. The range was 21,000 yards. No damage was suffered.

22 August

ROKN MTB 26, while 800 yards from shore, was taken under fire by enemy mortars from an unknown position in the vicinity of Yangdo. The mortars wore unable to hit the MTB.


USS Strong (DD 758) was fired on by an estimated 122 mm gun located on the western shore of the Haeju approaches. Enemy fired 12 rounds, but caused no damage.

27 August

Enemy shore batteries in the vicinity of Chaho fired about 100 rounds of estimated 122 mm shells at USS Competent(AM 336). No damage or casualties resulted.

Court of inquiry disclosed that Boxer fire had been caused by a failure to insure that a machine gun was clear prior to releasing bolt to firing position, during servicing of aircraft.

USS Tingey (DD 539), while proceeding northward from the bombline on a close-in search, observed what she believed to be an enemy shore battery on island of Songdo preparing to fire. The Tingey commenced firing and fired 12 rounds prior to discovering Songdo was occupied by friendlies. Fire caused no damage, but slightly wounded four men. Later in day enemy mortars, on mainland, took Songdo under fire killing one man and wounding another. 

USS Competent (AMS 336) lost all of her sweep gear in the vicinity of Chaho, when the enemy fired upon her and USSMcDermut (DD 677). Competent's super-structure was sprayed with fragments from 25 of the rounds which fell close aboard. The damage was minor and no personnel casualties were suffered.

28 August

During operations from 28 August to two September, Guided Missile Unit (GMU) 90, while operating from USS Boxer (CVA 21), launched six "guided missile" F6F drones against selected land targets in Korea. Results were one hit, four misses, and one operational abort.

While on the Hungnam patrol, USS Sarsi (ATF 111) struck a mine and sank within 21 minutes. Of the 97 men reported aboard, 92 were recovered by USS Zeal (AM 131), USS Competent (AM 316), and USS Boyd (DD 544). The Sarsi's registered publications were reported weighted and sunk, but it was not known whether the bag was sealed securely. Operations plans held by her sank in a locked safe. Eight bags of U.S. mail were also lost. CTE 95.62 ordered a ship to remain in the area to prevent possible enemy salvage of material.

ROKN MTB 23 received enemy small arms fire in the vicinity of Songjin. No damage or casualties were experienced.

In Wonsan Harbor USS McDurmet (DD 677) received superficial shrapnel damage from a near miss scored by an enemy 75/76 mm shore battery. There were no personnel casualties.

29 August

Largest air raid of Korean War to date. TF 77 carriers, in coordination with Air Force, Marine, British and Australian Air Forces, launched a strike of well over 1,000 aircraft against Pyongyang, destroying warehouses, gun positions, railroad cars, trucks; damaging rubber factory, oil tanks, and other targets.

Enemy mortars on mainland fired on friendly island of Songdo. Counterbattery fire by USS Tingey (DD 535) silenced mortars.

30 August

Friendly island of Mudo fired on by enemy shore guns; HMAS Bataan (DD) silenced the enemy guns with counterbattery fire.

An unreported caliber enemy gun in the vicinity of Ongjin fired on HMAS Bataan (DD). No damage or casualties resulted.

USS Sarsi (ATF 111) salvage operations conducted today. The wreck was located sitting upright with her radar antenna approximately 10 feet below the surface. USS Boyd (DD 544) provided suppression fire on 20 guns and several tanks visible in the area. During the day several 75/76 mm guns fired on boats conducting operation, but caused no damage. Due to enemy shore guns, holdover, it was decided that salvage was impossible and demolition was ordered.

USS LSSL 108 taken under fire by an unreported caliber gun on mainland east of Cho-do. Counterbattery fire by HMSNewcastle (CL) silenced gun. No damage to LSSL 108.

Note: All dates and times are expressed in local Korean time, known as "K" time. That time zone falls between 142½° E and 157 ½° East Longitude.

[END]
Published: Wed Apr 08 09:28:54 EDT 2015